Forex.com and HF Markets (previously HotForex) are two well-known names in the forex industry. Both offer strong reputations, a wide range of tradable instruments, and cater to global traders. However, they differ significantly in their approach to regulation, platform offerings, leverage, and client experience. This comparison breaks down their differences to help you decide which fits your trading strategy best in 2025.
Broker Review Contents
Broker background
Forex.com was launched in 2001 and is owned by StoneX Group Inc., a publicly listed company on NASDAQ. It operates globally and maintains a strong presence in regulated markets including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
HF Markets, formerly known as HotForex, was founded in 2010. The broker operates under multiple brand names across different regions and is known for offering high leverage, bonus schemes, and a strong presence in emerging markets like Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
| Feature | Forex.com | HF Markets (HotForex) |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2001 | 2010 |
| Headquarters | USA | Cyprus |
| Regulation | FCA, ASIC, NFA, IIROC, CySEC | FCA, FSCA, DFSA, CySEC, FSA |
| Parent Company | StoneX Group (NASDAQ: SNEX) | HF Markets Group Ltd. |
| Market Presence | Global, highly regulated | Strong in Asia, Africa, MENA |
Regulation and trust
Forex.com stands out with its regulatory coverage from top-tier financial authorities like the CFTC, FCA, ASIC, and IIROC. This gives traders a higher sense of security and legal protection.
HF Markets is also regulated in multiple jurisdictions including the FCA (UK), CySEC (EU), FSCA (South Africa), and DFSA (Dubai). However, it is more focused on flexibility and accessibility for offshore and emerging market traders.
Trading platforms
Forex.com supports a range of platforms including:
- MetaTrader 4 and 5
- Proprietary Advanced Trading Platform
- WebTrader
- TradingView integration
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
HF Markets offers:
- MetaTrader 4 and 5
- HF App (for trading and account management)
- Web-based trading platforms
While both brokers support MT4 and MT5, Forex.com offers more advanced features with TradingView integration and institutional-grade execution tools.
Tradable instruments
| Asset Type | Forex.com | HF Markets (HotForex) |
|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | 80+ | 50+ |
| Indices | Yes | Yes |
| Commodities | Yes | Yes |
| Cryptocurrencies | Yes | Yes |
| Stock CFDs | Yes | Yes |
| ETFs | Yes | No |
| Futures | No | No |
Forex.com offers a broader market selection, especially with the inclusion of ETF CFDs, which HF Markets does not currently provide.
Account types and deposits
Forex.com offers:
- Standard account
- Commission-based account
- DMA (Direct Market Access)
- Swap-free Islamic accounts
HF Markets offers:
- Micro account
- Premium account
- Zero Spread account
- HFcopy (copy trading)
- Islamic accounts
Minimum deposit:
- Forex.com: $100
- HF Markets: $5 (Micro account)
HF Markets is more beginner-friendly with ultra-low deposit requirements and copy trading features, while Forex.com caters more to experienced and institutional-level traders.
Spreads and commissions
Forex.com:
- Standard spreads start from 1.0 pip
- Commission account: 0.2 pip + $5 per lot
- No deposit/withdrawal fees
- Inactivity fee after 12 months
HF Markets:
- Micro/Premium: Spreads from 1.0 pip
- Zero account: 0.0 pip + commission
- No fees on deposits or most withdrawals
HF Markets is strong on raw spread accounts and is slightly more transparent for scalpers and high-volume traders in less regulated regions. Forex.com offers more structure for traders in Tier-1 jurisdictions.
Leverage and margin
| Region | Forex.com | HF Markets (HotForex) |
|---|---|---|
| UK/EU Retail | Up to 1:30 | Up to 1:30 |
| USA | Up to 1:50 | Not available |
| Global (Pro) | Up to 1:200 | Up to 1:1000 |
HF Markets provides higher leverage (up to 1:1000) for offshore and pro clients, ideal for aggressive strategies. Forex.com maintains stricter, regulated limits which are safer for capital preservation.
Tools, research, and education
Forex.com includes:
- Autochartist
- Trading Central
- TradingView
- Strategy optimizer
- Economic calendar
- Live webinars and market analysis
HF Markets provides:
- HF App tools
- Daily market analysis
- Economic calendar
- Trader’s Education Zone
- Copy trading via HFcopy
Forex.com focuses on advanced tools and integrations with third-party analysis software. HF Markets leans toward accessibility and community trading through its copy trading features.
Mobile experience
Forex.com’s mobile app is highly rated for execution speed, real-time alerts, and charting features. It mirrors the full web experience and supports advanced order types.
HF Markets offers the HF App, which includes both trading functionality and account management. It’s simple, intuitive, and ideal for traders on the move.
Both platforms offer good mobile experiences, but Forex.com delivers more depth for professional traders.
Customer support
Forex.com:
- 24/5 support via phone, email, and live chat
- Onboarding and educational resources
- Global help desk
HF Markets:
- 24/5 multilingual support
- Local offices in Asia, Africa, and MENA
- Dedicated relationship managers for VIPs
HF Markets has an advantage in offering regional support and account managers. Forex.com is faster at handling technical issues and account setup globally.
Summary comparison table
| Feature | Forex.com | HF Markets (HotForex) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | Strong Tier-1 global | Multi-jurisdictional |
| Platform Options | MT4, MT5, TradingView | MT4, MT5, HF App |
| Account Flexibility | Standard, DMA, Islamic | Micro, Premium, Zero, HFcopy |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 | $5 |
| Leverage | Up to 1:200 | Up to 1:1000 |
| Tradable Markets | Wide, includes ETFs | Moderate, no ETFs |
| Mobile Trading | Professional tools | Beginner-friendly |
| Tools & Education | Advanced third-party tools | Copy trading and video lessons |
| Best for Beginners | Yes | Yes |
| Best for Pros | Yes (DMA & Tools) | Yes (Zero & HFcopy) |
Who should choose Forex.com?
Forex.com is a great fit for:
- Traders in regulated countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia)
- Investors seeking institutional-quality tools and analytics
- Users who rely on TradingView or advanced charting
- Traders wanting transparent pricing and secure regulation
Who should choose HF Markets?
HF Markets is ideal for:
- Beginners starting with low deposits
- Traders in Asia, Africa, and MENA regions
- Users who value copy trading and community tools
- Traders needing high leverage and localized support
